General information on chemotherapy

Chemotherapy is a treatment used for some types of cancer. This section gives information about chemotherapy. We hope that it answers some of the questions you may have about the treatment and helps you to cope with any side effects it may cause. Where cancer is mentioned, this refers to cancer, leukaemia and lymphoma.

Sometimes chemotherapy is used to treat non-cancerous conditions but often the doses are lower and the side effects may be reduced. This section does not cover the use of chemotherapy for conditions other than cancer.

The section is divided into sections about how the treatment works|, how it is given| and how to deal with some of the more common side effects|. You are likely to have questions and concerns about your own treatment that this information does not cover, as there are over 200 different types of cancer| and over 50 chemotherapy drugs|, which can be given in various ways. It is best to discuss the details of your own treatment with your doctor, who will be familiar with your particular situation and type of cancer.

If you think that this information has helped you, you can show it to any of your family and friends who may find it useful. They too may want to be informed so they can help you cope with any problems you may have.